Acute flaccid myelitis

Acute flaccid myelitis

Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) is a rare but serious condition that affects the spinal cord. It can cause muscle weakness that comes on suddenly and can sometimes result in permanent paralysis. Most people who have AFM experience sudden onset of weakness in 1 or more limbs and/or a loss of muscle tone and reflexes. Some people with AFM also have trouble moving their eyes or have drooping eyelids, facial weakness or droop, difficulty swallowing or slurred speech, pain in the arms or legs, and/or pain in the neck or back. AFM most commonly affects children, and does not spread person to person.

The exact cause of AFM is still unknown. AFM happens most often after someone is infected with a virus (enterovirus) that starts in the stomach or intestines and works its way to the brain and spinal cord. Enteroviruses are very common and usually don’t cause symptoms at all or very mild flu-like symptoms. Poliovirus is a type of enterovirus. Other causes of AFM may include environmental toxins or genetic disorders, but these are still being researched.  

Since we don't know what triggers AFM in a person, there is no specific action you can take to prevent AFM. You can take steps to prevent getting sick from a virus which may trigger the syndrome. Make sure you: 

  • Stay up to date on all recommended vaccines, including poliovirus
  • Protect yourself from mosquito-borne viruses by using mosquito repellent and staying indoors at dusk and dawn
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick
  • Clean surfaces that are touched more often with a disinfectant

Read personal stories from families affected by AFM to learn more about how to identify the symptoms and possible treatment options for you and your loved ones.